Concerns about cruising? Here are the facts

Although millions of people have cruised all over the world, many folks are still somewhat wary of going on a cruise.  My husband and I love to cruise and believe it's one of the best, if not the best, ways to see the world.  So let's take a look at the concerns I hear from people about cruising. 

 

Aren't cruises expensive? - Cruises are probably the most economical method of travel other than camping.  You get so much included in your basic cruise price (food, lodging, entertainment, transportation to different ports).

I’ll get seasick – We have been on 17 cruises, a few in pretty rough weather. My husband has trouble in small boats, but never once on an ocean liner. We have escorted at least 100 people on cruises, and only one had a minor seasickness episode (on very high seas).

It’s boring – There are so many things to do on sea days. Sports competitions, trivia, movies, evening shows, shuffleboard, rock climbing, swimming, hot tub, spa and fitness center, library offerings, classes (cooking, photography, computer, health, dancing), lectures, casino, karaoke, talent shows, shopping, game room, checking out your pictures, and of course people watching!

I’ll feel trapped – I have never met anyone on board who had this problem. There are lots of open spaces. The ships are huge! Even claustrophobics do well, but may want a balcony stateroom.  Yes, the staterooms are small, but very well designed with more closet and storage space than you will need.

It will be crowded – Have you been to Walt Disney World or Disney Land? Now that’s crowded! Yes, there will sometimes be lines at the buffet, but nothing bad.  All the main cruise lines design their ships to give passengers space.  The larger ships have more people.  The smaller ships less.  Our last cruise to Alaska was on a smaller ship and we never felt crowded.  We could always find a nice spot to relax and view the incredible Alaska scenery.  

It’s dangerous – When there is a problem with a cruise ship, it makes the headlines because issues are so rare.  Problems usually are due to power loss or weather, and the crew members are well trained to handle most any emergency. You are taught what to do in an emergency during the lifeboat drill prior to sailing, and the crew performs emergency drills at least weekly. But remember there are issues with any kind of travel. Cars, trains, buses, and planes crash. The Titanic was a long time ago, and the cruise ships of today are well managed and super safe. There are hundreds of ships sailing on any given day, with rare problems. If you have a fear of falling overboard accidentally, it is literally impossible to do this.  Sailing on a cruise ship is one of the safer means of travel.  

My husband and I are home cruise agents for Cruise Brothers, a 40 year-old Rhode Island travel agency.  I would love to help you plan a cruise. Contact me at bwalters7@att.net.